🔗 Share this article At least 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio de Janeiro's Biggest Law Enforcement Operation on Gangs Residents described the region to a battlefield after the raid At least 64 individuals were killed in a law enforcement action against the criminal organization Comando Vermelho in the Brazilian city's north zone - the largest and deadliest raid in the area's past. Four law enforcement personnel were included in the fatalities during the security mission in the communities of Alemão and Penha, state officials reported. More than 80 individuals were taken into custody. Some 2,500 police forces were involved in the police raid Fierce clashes commenced when about 2,500 security personnel entered the area on the morning of the operation. The criminal organization countered with gunfire, burning barricades and using drone-dropped explosives, police representatives stated. The UN Human Rights Office stated it felt "shocked" by the law enforcement raid, demanding "prompt and effective investigations". Operation Impact The slum neighborhoods adjacent to the aerial transportation hub is regarded as the central command of one of Brazil's most powerful criminal organizations. State officials said no less than 50 of those killed were "classified by law enforcement as potential lawbreakers". Many residents were hurt, including civilians caught in the crossfire. Local Reaction Community members have compared the elevated neighborhood - home to about 300,000 individuals - to a "combat area" since the raid started. Roads remain closed in the entire neighborhood. Criminal Expansion The Comando Vermelho organization has been increasing their territory across the Rio state, increasing drug trafficking routes and dominance over the slum communities. Security forces stated more than 200kg (441lb) of drugs were confiscated in the operation, together with dozens of firearms. Mission Context The joint operation by civil and military police was preceded by a twelve-month inquiry. Dozens of the suspects are believed to be participants in an organization from the northern region who are presently concealed in Rio de Janeiro. Broader Context Major law enforcement actions are not uncommon in Brazil prior to major international events in the country. The United Nations climate conference the climate conference is set to occur in the city of Belem in the north in the eleventh month.